Michael Whalen

Video

Oral History Information

Interview Date
Job Title
Composer, Music Supervisor, Recording Artist
Company Name
Michael Whalen Music, LDT.

Michael Whalen, a two-time Emmy® Award-winning American composer, producer, and recording artist, has left an indelible mark on contemporary instrumental and television music. Born on December 2, 1965, in New York City, Whalen's musical journey began at age 5 with percussion lessons and continued through his formal education at Berklee College of Music. His career, spanning more than three decades, has traversed various genres, from contemporary classical to jazz to pop to new age/ambient. Renowned for his melodic and romantic compositions and atmospheric soundscapes, Whalen's work graces numerous films, television shows, and advertising projects. Combining classical instrumentation with modern technology, he crafts captivating sonic experiences. Throughout his 46 solo albums, which include notable works like “My Secret Heart” and “Nightscenes,” Whalen showcases his distinctive musical voice. Beyond composition, Whalen's influence extends to music production and collaborations with industry giants like Stephen Sondheim and Brian Wilson. His accolades include eight Emmy nominations, 10 Clio awards, a BMI award, and four Global Music Awards. Whalen continues to release new music and his current recordings are some of the best of his career. Whalen remains a celebrated figure in the music industry with an impressive catalog of music.